So-Yeon Won

MFA 2018

Obsessed and Oppressed in Appearance

Print, mirror, album frame, 2016, 30"w x 25"h

This project serves to challenge the obsession with appearance that is rife in modern South Korea, one of the few nations that ascribe power and privilege differently, based on an individual’s outward appearance. Many Koreans believe that being pretty leads to success, as many companies require photo ID attached to a résumé. It is easy to see the prevalence of cosmetic surgery in South Korea just by taking a 20-minute ride on the subway. My project depicts this serious social issue through an interactive board game and provides viewers the opportunity to take part in it.